Senator Adams Oshiomhole has said governors cannot effectively function as chief security officers of their states without greater authority over policing.
Speaking during an ARISE News town hall on state police, the Edo North senator said Nigeria’s security structure gives governors responsibility for security. However, it does not give them the powers needed to carry out that responsibility.
Oshiomhole argued that many people hold governors accountable for insecurity. Yet, governors do not control the police in their states. He said this situation makes it harder for them to respond to security challenges.
The former Edo State governor also backed the creation of state police. He rejected claims that some states cannot fund the system.
According to him, governments spend money based on their priorities. He added that security should remain a top priority.
Meanwhile, Oshiomhole dismissed concerns that politicians would misuse state police. He argued that the fear of abuse should not stop reforms that could improve security.
According to daily post,He also said responsibility must always come with authority. Therefore, he urged policymakers to support reforms that would give governors greater influence over policing. According to him, such changes would strengthen accountability and improve security across the country.
